Everyone wants a flat stomach - that's one of the reasons why there's so many fad diets, exercise routines, and fitness accessories saturating the market today. However, achieving the figure that you've always wanted doesn't have to mean investing in dozens of innovative gadgets or weight-loss pills that claim to make calorie burning easier.

Instead of sucking it in every time you want to wear your favorite pair of jeans, or trusting your figure to the latest craze, follow a few simple steps to a slimmer stomach, and you'll find that you end up with better results, which last much longer.

1.    Try a Waist Trimmer Belt

A waist trimming belt can be a great investment on the road to a toned tummy. Although these accessories won't do much for you if you simply strap them on and sit in front of the television all day - when used in conjunction with exercise they can help to boost your calorie burning power so you shed pounds faster. Waist trimming belts use thermal technology to give you the amazing middle you crave, and the best ones are so comfortable that you'll forget you're even wearing one at all!

2.    Focus on Hydration

Water is a crucial part of staying happy and healthy - particularly when you're making an effort to flatten your stomach. Almost all steps to a slimmer stomach involve drinking more water, as hydration helps you to build proper fluid balance, prevent water retention, and even keep you feeling full in between meals. Water also helps to break down fat for energy, while moving nutrients through your muscles for a quicker metabolism.

3.    Chew Your Food

Chewing is a fantastic way to get rid of unnecessary bloating that can get in the way of a slim, toned stomach. Chew each piece of food until it's like applesauce in your mouth, and remember that digestion begins with proper chomping.

4.    Keep Up the Cardio

Many steps to a slimmer stomach involve taking some actual steps, or getting your heart pumping in some way. Aerobic exercise has been proven to be the most effective way of burning deep belly fat. In fact, cardio exercise burns about 67% more calories than resistance training, so make sure every workout comes from the heart.

5.    Sleep More

Research has found that people who sleep at least seven hours a night are capable of losing about twice as much fat as their tired counterparts. What's more, well-rested individuals generally feel less hunger than people who get less shut-eye on a regular basis.

6.    Sit and Sculpt

Finally, just because you're sitting down doesn't mean you have to ignore your stomach goals. Whether you're sitting in the office, driving, or just catching up with a friend, imagine your back is stuck to the back of the chair, so that you're constantly holding yourself up straight, rather than slumping forwards. Posture is crucial when it comes to slimming down the stomach and improving your overall health.